Establishing level of independence vs. support required

The bathroom, with its hazards and reliance on stable body position during washing up, bathing and toileting makes muscular dystrophy a significant barrier towards independence.
Part of the OTs assessment is to determine what degree of mobility the individual has. It’s important that a plan provides all the support needed, without removing independence that the individual with MD otherwise is capable of maintaining. That’s why it’s so important for this stage to be a collaborative process between health professionals, OT, family and the person with the condition.

Using the bathroom may be possible with a degree of independence, such as bathing oneself but needing help getting in and out of the shower. Or, the effects of muscular dystrophy may necessitate a complete support from start to finish. Whatever the requirements, any leg or arm mobility challenges may mean the individual is a candidate for a shower chair or other support equipment.

Coping with the challenges of muscular dystrophy shouldn’t be faced alone. The support of family both physically and emotionally is a huge part of an individual’s journey. Friends and others facing MD are also important to share experiences.

Understanding the particular type of muscular dystrophy

As muscular dystrophy varies in how it affects muscle areas, it’s important to have a clear assessment of this before proceeding with a plan to manage around the home. Health professionals will provide a detailed diagnosis which can then be supplied to the occupation therapist (OT) to start a support plan.

Common types of muscular dystrophy include Becker and Duchenne. For MD that impacts arms and leg use, assistance in the bathroom is commonly needed.

Tapping into support available in your area

Muscular dystrophy is a fairly common occurrence, with 1 in 3,500 male births worldwide having Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Health systems are therefore well versed in this genetic condition and a number of supports are available depending on where you live. Your personal doctor will be able to refer you or your loved one to this support. This can include groups and networks, medical professionals and of course OTs to help plan and live daily life.

A bathroom plan needs to stay dynamic and reviewed regularly

With a progressive condition like MD, the plan for bathroom mobility must be an ongoing discussion. Communication between individual, carer and health providers like the OT can ensure that adjustments are made when mobility changes.

How well the plan is working will depend on:

• The individual’s ability to conduct personal activities like bathing and using the toilet alone.
• Whether the individual can support their own weight and remain stable in certain positions.
• Whether they have the ability to move their legs, particularly if using a bathtub style shower.
• How much of a role does equipment play in the transfer and mobility in the shower.
• The individual’s own comfort and satisfaction with the current bathroom plan.

Assessing the bathroom’s fit for purpose

An OT will conduct an assessment on the bathroom against the required support plan. Some bathrooms are not naturally laid out for someone with mobility needs like muscular dystrophy. Historically modifying the bathroom required expensive remodeling, making many rented houses very difficult to accommodate those with impairments. Now, with solutions like Showerbuddy, excellent bathroom mobility support is possible.

We work with OTs and their clients with muscular dystrophy frequently to help ascertain if a bathroom is fit for our mobility solutions – in most cases they are, but we can help determine what shower chair and accessories will be needed to enable the user the best possible experience.

Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers play a crucial role in providing specialized care for individuals facing memory challenges. Within these centers, every effort is made to create an environment of compassion and understanding. In this article, we delve into the vital significance of The Shower Solution Store’s advanced mobility equipment, which embraces the spirit of progression and empowers lives on the memory care journey in Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers.

Embracing Progression and Empowering Lives on the Memory Care Journey

1. A Journey of Compassion

At the heart of Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers lies a commitment to providing compassionate care to individuals navigating the complexities of memory challenges. The Shower Solution Store’s innovative mobility solutions are an extension of this dedication, ensuring that each person is treated with the utmost dignity and respect throughout their unique journey.

2. Enhancing Independence

The Shower Solution Store’s array of cutting-edge mobility equipment empowers individuals to maintain a sense of independence, even amid the challenges of memory loss. From specialized shower transfer aids to assistive devices, each product is thoughtfully designed to enhance mobility and promote confidence in daily activities.

3. Fostering Meaningful Connections

Moments of connection are cherished in Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers, bridging the gap between memory and the present. The Shower Solution Store’s advanced equipment eases the burden of daily tasks, allowing caregivers to focus on nurturing these cherished moments, fostering a deep sense of connection with their patients.

4. Empowering Caregivers

Caregivers at Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers are the pillars of support for those in their care. The Shower Solution Store’s innovative products not only enhance the well-being of individuals with memory challenges but also support caregivers in their vital roles. With ergonomic equipment, caregivers can devote more time to providing attentive care and emotional support.

5. Pioneering Progress in Memory Care

By embracing The Shower Solution Store’s cutting-edge mobility solutions, Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers embrace a new era in memory care. The collaboration between progressive centers and innovative equipment providers fosters an environment of continuous improvement, where advancements in care lead to enriched lives for those in the memory care community.

In Alzheimer’s/Dementia Centers, every step on the memory care journey is guided by compassion and empathy. The Shower Solution Store’s advanced mobility equipment elevates this journey, empowering individuals with memory challenges and their caregivers alike.
As innovative equipment meets the dedication of care providers, the memory care community moves forward with determination, embracing the essence of progression and dignity.

When it comes to patient care, nothing is more important than ensuring their safety, dignity, and independence. For individuals with mobility impairments, everyday activities like showering can become challenging, requiring the assistance of caregivers and family members.

However, a revolutionary solution is transforming the way we approach safe shower transfers – introducing the Showerbuddy SB1, an innovative product that empowers individuals with mobility needs to regain control of their shower experience.

When it comes to patient care, nothing is more important than ensuring their safety, dignity, and independence. For individuals with mobility impairments, everyday activities like showering can become challenging, requiring the assistance of caregivers and family members.

In the past, addressing mobility needs in the bathroom often involved costly and time-consuming remodeling projects. Families had to navigate the challenges of altering fixtures to accommodate special requirements, causing stress and financial burden. For those in rental properties, this option simply wasn’t feasible, leaving them with limited options.

Enter Showerbuddy SB1, a game-changing product that eliminates the need for bathroom remodeling. With its unique design, the SB1 offers a complete shower and toilet solution without requiring any modifications to existing fixtures.

The setup and configuration process take under an hour, making it a hassle-free addition to any bathroom. Even when moving to a new home, the Showerbuddy SB1 can be easily packed down and set up again, providing continuous support to the user.

Showering with the Showerbuddy SB1 is a breeze. The system consists of a comfortable, sturdy chair and a bridge unit that facilitates a smooth transfer into a step-in shower.

The user is seated in the chair, which is then moved along the bridge and aligned with the shower unit.

The chair’s waterproof suction feet securely anchor it to the shower floor, ensuring stability and safety during use.

Caregivers and family members will appreciate the chair’s rotating feature, which allows for different positions to accommodate user preferences and ease of cleaning.

Once showering is complete, the chair effortlessly connects back to the bridge, enabling a seamless transfer out of the shower. The base can stay in place for future use or be quickly removed, making the shower accessible to other family members.

The Showerbuddy SB1 is not limited to shower transfers; it also simplifies toileting. Its comfortable, height-adjustable chair can be maneuvered and secured over the toilet with its locking caster wheels.

When not in use, a full overlay cushion accessory closes the opening, transforming the SB1 into a cozy day chair. For those who need a nighttime commode, the Showerbuddy SB1 comes equipped with an included pan and lid, providing convenience and versatility.

Safety is of utmost importance, which is why the Showerbuddy SB1 boasts an aluminum and stainless steel construction. Its patented chair and bridge design ensures reliable functionality day in and day out.